As he did on 26 April 2019 ahead of file his nomination papers from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will today repeat the ritual and will visit the Kaal Bhairav temple and seek blessings from the deity who is also known as the Kotwal of Kashi or the guard of Varanasi.
Significance of Kashi Kotwal Baba Kal Bhairav
Kashi Kotwal Baba Kal Bhairav, renowned in the Shakta tradition, is venerated as a formidable incarnation of Lord Shiva, entrusted with the guardianship of the sacred city of Kashi (Varanasi). Legend holds that Lord Shiva himself appointed Kal Bhairav in Kashi making it imperative for all residents to seek his permission to dwell there. It is said that a pilgrimage to Varanasi remains incomplete without paying homage to Kal Bhairav, integral to comprehending Lord Shiva’s philosophy.
“Kotwal” signifying a vigilant guardian and “Baba,” an endearing term for a revered sage, encapsulate the essence of Kal Bhairav’s role. His iconography is striking, often portrayed adorned with a macabre garland of skulls, wielding a trident, and seated majestically atop a dog, his divine mount.
Devotees flock to Kashi Kotwal Baba Kal Bhairav, beseeching his blessings for protection, prosperity and the removal of impediments. Believed to be the upholder of cosmic order and the city’s sanctity, offerings of liquor, meat, flowers and vermilion are made by devotees seeking appeasement and divine favour.
The emergence of Kashi’s Kotwal
Kaal Bhairav, the formidable aspect of Shiva shrouded in darkness and dread, is steeped in numerous myths and legends. Among the most prevalent tales, one recounts how Lord Shiva, incensed by a transgression committed by Lord Brahma, forged Kaal Bhairav to mete out justice. In a swift and decisive act, Kaal Bhairav severed one of Lord Brahma’s heads, yet found himself unable to rid his hand of the severed skull, despite fervent efforts.
Thus burdened, Kaal Bhairav embarked on a penitent journey, known as the Kapaal Vrata, mandated for slaying a Brahmin. Throughout his wanderings, the skull remained steadfastly affixed to his hand until he reached the hallowed precincts of Kashi. There, in a moment of divine intervention, the skull relinquished its grip and fell to the earth, prompting a jubilant dance from Lord Shiva himself.
Having completed his penance, Lord Shiva anointed Kaal Bhairav as the guardian of Kashi, entrusting him with the mantle of chief dispenser of justice. In the cosmic hierarchy, Lord Shiva reigns as the sovereign of Kashi, with Kaal Bhairav serving as his vigilant guardian, bestowing blessings upon the righteous and administering retribution to the errant. Such is his authority that even Yama, the deity of death, is purportedly restrained from exercising his jurisdiction within the sacred confines of Kashi.
Devotees invoke Kaal Bhairav’s name for protection during arduous journeys, especially under the shroud of night, believing in his vigilant watchfulness over travelers. Additionally, he is revered as the mentor of Shani (Saturn), believed to shield his devotees from untimely demise, sorrow, calamity and indebtedness.
The present day
Interestingly, the Vishwesharganj police station in Varanasi, which is just behind the famous Kaal Bhairav temple has Lord Kaal Bhairav presiding on the chair of station-in-charge.
There is no wonder that Kashi Kotwal Baba Kal Bhairav has a role in politics as well.
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PM Modi, Varanasi Lok Sabha seat and the importance of Kashi Kotwal Baba Kal Bhairav
